An accident, injury, or mistake can change the lives of victim, family, and friends forever. Victims may be entitled to monetary compensation for treatment. They may be entitled to an award equivalent to the value of the loss. Victims may also be entitled to recover expenses arising from the incident. Occasionally, a victim may deserve compensation for pain and suffering or may even be entitled to punitive damages. Evaluating a claim, developing a strategy, negotiating settlements, and—if need be—going to trial, all require the skills of a top legal professional.